Tom Cleverly ruled out of England games against Montenegro and Poland

Cleverley has been one of the most used players under Roy Hodgson, starting every game he was available for

Midfielder Tom Cleverley has been ruled out of England's World Cup qualifiers against Montenegro and Poland due to a sore calf, the Football Association has confirmed.

While it appeared unlikely Cleverley was going to start against Montenegro on Friday evening, he would have been a useful option from the bench in that game and against Poland on Tuesday.

He has been one of the most used players under Hodgson, starting every game he was available for under the 66-year-old last season.

Manchester United manager David Moyes will be hoping the damage is not too extensive given another midfielder, Marouane Fellaini, is playing through the discomfort of a wrist injury that will eventually require surgery. In addition, Robin van Persie is believed to be suffering a toe injury.

Hodgson at least has midfield alternatives.

Indeed, it has been suggested he may leave Arsenal's Jack Wilshere out of his starting line-up to face Montenegro, with either Michael Carrick or Frank Lampard getting the call to operate alongside skipper Steven Gerrard instead.

England go into the game a point clear of both their visitors and Ukraine, who entertain a Poland side that is a further two points adrift.